Finding gift ideas for teens presents a challenge for those who love them. They are too old for toys and not quite adults.
I went to my reliable sources ( my own teens ) and asked them what they and their friends would appreciate.
Clothes were the number one answer, but unless you really know their style, that would be hard to pull off.
I listed 10 alternative gift ideas for teens here below, most are simple and inexpensive! These are jumping-off suggestions to get you “un-stuck”.
The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. ~ Burton Hillis
What is a good gift for a teen?
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My teens say gift cards are always welcome. I asked for some store suggestions, and they say: Forever 21 (girls), Vans, and Target or a department store. Food gift cards also for places like Starbucks are winners
At Christmas play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes but once a year. ~ Thomas Tusser
Movie baskets. Buy a bucket and include microwave popcorn, candy (a hit!) and a movie (check out reviews here) and/or a gift card to the local theater. Also great for teens with special food needs, the gift can be tailored in that way
Speaking of food, I’ve never met a teen that doesn’t love it. A box of goodies just for them is more desirable than a set of sheets ( this happened to me, twice 😉 . My girls always loved their own big tubs of Nutella, it is the simple things sometimes!
Some gifts are big. Others are small. But the ones that come from the heart are the best gifts of all. – Tinku Razoria
Magazine subscription for their interests. For example, one daughter loves to travel (National Geographic) and one might like Backpacking, Tea parties, music, photography, animals, or all things relaxation. These are great gifts because they keep coming in the mail all year
Accessories for their car. Since most teens are on a limited budget, and especially if their car is older, they might like new speakers, license plate bling frames, or seat covers, etc.
Did you know that Santa’s not allowed to go down chimneys this year? It was declared unsafe by the Elf and Safety Commission.
Tickets to events. Go to a website that sells tickets for the venue closest to the teen. See what bands and shows are coming, and then do some recon to see which they’d like. This would be a hugely popular gift
Many teens are avid readers and appreciate a hardcover of a favorite story. Or check out Etsy for unique (I love Etsy and supporting them) handcrafted items that carry out the story
By far, the most important thing I give my teens? Spending time together. Experience gifts. Take them to get a Starbucks drink, and spend the day going where they’d like. Asking them why they enjoy it, and letting them share their opinions and ideas.
Enjoy the presence instead of the presents
Snap a selfie. Just be silly and have fun. It is the best and longest-lasting gift, memories.
Memories are perhaps the best gifts of all. – Gloria Gaither
It is in these moments too, that we show Christ to the kids we love. That He loves to just be with them.
